Sikongo, Western Province — The Minister of Small and Medium Enterprise Development, Hon. Eng. Elias Mubanga, MP, yesterday visited rice farmers in Sikongo District to assess progress under the Citizens Economic Empowerment Commission (CEEC)-funded rice production project.
Among the beneficiaries is Mr. Jerry Mutata, a seasoned rice farmer with 15 years of experience and a member of the Tukwame Multipurpose Cooperative. He is one of the 1,463 farmers supported under the 2024/2025 CEEC Rice Empowerment Programme.
The project, which covers over 4,000 hectares, was initiated in response to the devastating drought experienced during the 2023/2024 farming season.
During the tour, Hon. Mubanga commended the impressive progress made by farmers like Mr. Mutata, citing Tukwame as a model cooperative for its strategic shift to marshland areas, a move that significantly improved crop yield potential.
“Seeing the impact on the ground through dedicated farmers like Mr. Mutata shows that when communities are empowered with the right tools and support, they can drive change,” Hon.Mubanga stated.
Mr. Mutata showcased his rice field, cultivated using CEEC-supplied tractors and AfriSeed rice seed. He praised the programme for promoting mechanised farming and delivering critical training for productivity.
CEEC Director General, Dr. Charles Muwe Mungule, who accompanied the Minister, reiterated the Commission’s commitment to ensuring a successful harvest season, which begins at the end of May.
He announced that harvesters and trailers would be deployed, with plans underway to construct a rice processing plant to enhance value addition in the district.
Also present was Western Province Deputy Permanent Secretary, Mr. Richard Mulwanda, who emphasized that the Minister’s visit underscores government’s resolve to transform Sikongo into a rice production hub for the province and the nation.
He noted, “Western Province holds immense economic potential that, if fully harnessed, can significantly contribute to the country’s social and economic development.”
Issued by:
Mwakoi Njekwa (Mr)
Principal Public Relations Officer
Western Province.
